Odell’s Sunny Point Reserve

Property Profile

Acreage: 7

Date Protected: 2022

Location: 2 miles North of Brodhead, WI

Ownership: Privately owned

Recreation: No public recreation

Land Use: Conservation & restoration

History and Ecology
”My grandpa allowed cows to graze the property for several years, keeping the vegetation down in otherwise forested areas. Hence, the name "Sunny Point” was born!”, recalls SWLC land donor and former property owner, Mary Odell. Nestled along the Decatur Lake, Sunny Point is now home to upland remnant oak savanna and forests. Odell generously donated her property to SWLC in 2022 to ensure her family’s former land would be protected from development in perpetuity.

Significant Habitat & Species
This property offers vital habitat for several noteworthy species. Forest birds, including the nesting red-headed woodpeckers, white-breasted nuthatches and eastern bluebirds find shelter here. Additionally, the property is home to a hibernaculum of garter snakes. The woodlands are adorned with many native woodland wildflowers and sedges, contributing to the area's ecological richness.

Recreational Opportunities
While there are no public recreational facilities or activities on this property, its location along the Decatur Lake holds significant importance for conservation, including improving the water quality of the heavily-agricultural Sugar River Watershed.

Future Use
Sunny Point will continue to be a hub for conservation and restoration efforts. The focus will be on restoring the forest, savanna, and lake margin wetland vegetation while implementing invasive species control measures. Additionally, it will serve as an educational resource to promote awareness and appreciation of the region's unique ecology.

Interested in donating your property to conservation? Click here for more information.